Why did you choose Radboud University?
When I knew for sure that Artificial Intelligence (AI) was the study for me, I started looking for the perfect curriculum, comparing different Dutch universities. After a few weeks of orientating I decided upon Radboud University, because it has strong bonds with various outstanding research institutes and the Radboud university medical centre. This was great, because it made it easier for me to follow my passion for clinical technology, neuroscience, and drug development.
How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?
The transfer from high school to university was quite hard for me. It look me a while before I got adapted to this new way of studying and the independence that the university gives you. During the first half year, I went to visit the study advisor to talk about the things I struggled with most and how to resolve them. Besides this, I was also guided by a mentor (a second year student), who I would have personal meetings with quite often. This, and of course my own motivation and discipline, made me overcome my problems in the first year.
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
First of all, I really enjoy that the Bachelor's in Artificial Intelligence offers such a broad range of courses. Every week you'll have various courses, ranging from mathematics to neuroscience, and from programming to academic skills. This way, it was clear to see which courses I really enjoyed doing, and which courses were less enjoyable for me. In general, I struggled most with the programming courses. I didn't get any prior education in programming, and even though we start from zero in the first year, university courses move quickly. I did manage to pass all my courses in the first year, but I sometimes still feel like I didn't have enough time to practice the basics of programming.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
I experience the study environment as very welcoming. The Bachelor's programme is an international programme, which means that the students come from all over the world. What I find so special about this, is that I learn so much about different cultures and gain a lot of new perspectives. During the Bachelor's programme some form of collaboration is needed for nearly every course. Math courses are mostly individual, programming assignments are mostly partner work, and some other courses require group work. Especially in the first year, this made it easier for me to get to know people and work on assignments.
Besides this, contact with staff is also very accessible. Teachers within the Bachelor's programme, are most of the time also researchers at the Radboud University or the linked research institutes. During a lecture, you can always walk up to them in the break to ask a material related question or anything else. They are also always available via email or other platforms.
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
When I finish my Bachelor's, I will most likely enrol for a Master's programme. This way, I can specialise a bit more before starting a job. I will probably do a Master's in bioinformatics, because I am interested in AI supported drug development. Before this, I would like to gain some experience by doing an internship.
Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?
I am not an active member of any committee within the study association. I do attend a lot of their activities, like parties, drinks, inhousedays at companies, educational talks, etc. I enjoy that they offer low-key activities to get yourself acquainted with the job market and other opportunities for students.
What do you like about Nijmegen?
I would describe Nijmegen as a relatively small and cosy city, that still has everything to offer. There are many bars, cafe's, stores, museums, restaurants and also markets all within walking distance. Besides all this, Nijmegen also has some nice beaches and nature parks, where you can swim, walk or picknick in summer. In my opinion, Nijmegen is the perfect mix between city and nature, young and old, and Dutch and international.
Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?
I decided that I wanted to study AI in the last year of high school. I was always very interested in astrophysics, but I was missing the tangible application of this science. I always knew that I was interested in a broad scala of topics, and would prefer to not yet strictly choose one discipline. That's when I discovered AI: a field that combines disciplines from any imaginable science. After writing my high school research paper on AI applications, I was very intrigued by the topic, and wanted to know more. That's when I knew for sure that I wanted to study AI! I only attended one online open day talk at Radboud University, and knew that the city and the curriculum were the right fit for me.
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
I know from my own experience that motivation and discipline are the key factors to completing a studies. So I would highly suggest choosing a studies that really interests you! Courses can get hard, but as long as you know what you're working towards, it get's easier to motivate yourself. It's of course easier said than done, to know where your interests actually lie. To help yourself out a bit, it can never hurt to attend the Bachelor Open Day or to think about the jobs you'd like to do later in life.